Evelyn Kojak Stevens, born to Helen and Theophile Kojak in Beaumont, Texas on March 2, 1911, died at Village Creek Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Lumberton on November 8, 2006.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Abraham George Stevens, after fifty-four years of marriage; her brothers, Louis Kojak and George Kojak; her beloved niece, Carol Young; and beloved nephew, George Kojak, Jr., M.D.
Reared in Beaumont, Evelyn graduated from Beaumont Senior High School in 1929. A skilled pianist, Latin scholar, and journalist, Evelyn was awarded many honors during her high school years. Following school she worked as a bookkeeper and manager at downtown ladies hat and clothing stores.
Evelyn was married to Abe Stevens of Port Arthur in 1937; as was still common in traditional Syrian families, her marriage was arranged by her mother and uncle and Abe’s mother. They forged a partnership which lasted until Abe’s death in 1991. Moving to Port Arthur, Evelyn and Abe owned and operated Stevens Market on Seventh Avenue for over thirty years, until retirement.
Evelyn was an active and leading member of El Awanis Club of Beaumont and the Southern Federation of Syrian Clubs. She was most proud of having provided financial support and encouragement to her three younger siblings both while they were still at home and also when they established their own businesses.
An avid gardener and life-long student of a wide range of subjects,
Evelyn corresponded with distant relatives, cared for “her neighborhood kitties”; and entertained family with her delicious Syrian dishes. A woman perhaps constrained by her culture and time, Evelyn nevertheless excelled in all endeavors, demonstrating an independence of thought and action throughout her life.
She is survived by her sister, Vivan Kojak Parks of Beaumont; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. She also leaves her wonderful caregiver of the past three years, Joyce Captain.
Private interment will be at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Port Arthur under the direction of Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin, Beaumont.